keeping up with the smiths. @eugeneweekly #risingappalachia #appalachianmusic

Appalachia is known for being a little different, we make unique foods, we produce moonshine and we have some of the most unique and talented people around. Another way that we celebrate our differences are with music and the Smith sisters are definitely adding a new spin on both the look and sound of Appalachian music.

"For sisters Leah and Chloe Smith of Rising Appalachia, there was no “aha” moment when they realized they could sing. They simply grew up doing it. The two sing, alone and together, accompanied by fiddle, bass, banjo, drums, trumpet or nothing at all. They chant, wax poetic, laugh, swoop and soar with harmonies that bring goosebumps. "

"The Smith women are now over the learning-curve hump. Since 2005 they have released five albums, one digital album and a DVD. Their Southern hippie meets jazzy lounge style provides plenty of reference points, but nothing pointing directly to them. They are fire dancers, sport dreadlocks and wear face paint. Unabashed treehuggers, the sisters evoke historical Southern song styles and rhythms while making them their own."

“We receive great influence and inspiration from collaboration and community building and are always humbled and lit up by the work of our friends and cohorts,” they say. These are 2 very talented singers and they show just how diverse that Appalachia really can be. Keep up the good work ladies!

Referenced from Eugene Weekly.